The Oklahoma State Cowboys, now ranked No. 24 in the Associated Press poll, are heading to Jack Trice Stadium in Ames, Iowa, for a Halloween night matchup against the Iowa State Cyclones. After a commanding 45‑10 win over Colorado during homecoming, the Cowboys hope to keep their momentum alive and improve their Big 12 standing.
Game details
When: 6 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 31
Where: Jack Trice Stadium, Ames, Iowa
TV: FOX
Radio: 96.1 KXXY and The Varsity Sports Network
Recent performance
Oklahoma State entered the season 5‑2 overall and 3‑1 in the Big 12 before the Colorado game. Quarterback Drew Mestemaker threw for 386 yards and four touchdowns, while running back Caleb Hawkins contributed 120 rushing yards. Kicker Sam Keltner set a school record with five field goals, helping the Cowboys amass 598 total yards and 28 first downs.
The win propelled the Cowboys back into the AP Top 25 after a brief fall from the poll following a loss to Houston earlier in the season. Their next test comes against a Cyclones team that sits at 3‑4 overall and 1‑3 in conference play.
Halloween atmosphere
Both schools are embracing the holiday spirit. Iowa State has invited fans to wear black, and the Cyclones will take the field in all‑black uniforms. The Cowboys will counter in bright orange attire, complete with skeleton‑themed cleats, adding a festive flair to the rivalry.
What’s at stake
The game offers Oklahoma State a chance to solidify its position near the top of the Big 12 and improve its chances for a conference championship run. A win would also boost the Cowboys’ national perception as they aim to finish the regular season with a strong record.
For Iowa State, the contest provides an opportunity to rebound from a challenging start and demonstrate resilience in front of a home crowd. The Cyclones will look to leverage the Halloween energy and the support of their fans to pull off an upset.
Key players to watch
- Drew Mestemaker (OSU QB): Coming off a four‑touchdown performance, his arm and decision‑making will be crucial.
- Caleb Hawkins (OSU RB): His ability to grind out yards on the ground will help balance the offense.
- Sam Keltner (OSU Kicker): Fresh off a record‑setting night, his leg could be a deciding factor in a close game.
- Quarterback for Iowa State (name not provided): Leading the Cyclones’ offense, he will need to contain the Cowboys’ high‑powered attack.
Fans can expect a high‑scoring, fast‑paced contest with both teams eager to prove themselves before the holiday weekend. The Halloween theme adds a unique local flavor, making the game a must‑watch for college‑football enthusiasts across Oklahoma and Iowa.
Original reporting: Oklahoma City News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.